On May 19, the USDA announced a case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) found at a South Carolina slaughterhouse. It was confirmed to be an atypical case, and the USDA assured the animal never entered the slaughter channels or the food supply and was of no risk to human health.
The approximately 5-year-old beef animal originated from a herd in Tennessee and was detected while a routine test was performed by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) on cattle deemed unsuitable for slaughter.
In alignment with the World Health Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), it was determined the case did not meet the criteria to affect global or domestic trade.
Although no threats are present, APHIS and state veterinary officials are gathering more information as an ongoing investigation is being conducted.
BSE, also known as mad cow disease, is a fatal neurological disease in cattle. It does not respond to treatment and comes in two forms. The classical form occurs in cattle after ingesting prion-contaminated feed (such as meat-and-bone meal containing protein derived from rendered infected cattle). The atypical form is believed to occur spontaneously in all cattle populations. This type generally appears in cattle 8 years old or older and still has scientists studying what exactly triggers the prion abnormality.
The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association president (USCA) Justin Tupper said in a statement, “USCA is grateful to the nationwide team of veterinarians, animal health officials, meat inspectors and others who ensure the well-being of the U.S. cattle herd and the safety of our food supply. The swift detection of this case proves that the systems and protocols we have put in place are working.”
